July 18, 2018
Americans love their dogs, but why? Here are five dog movies that explain our canine obsession.
By: Rebecca Haber
According to the ASPCA, almost half of Americans (44 percent) are dog owners. That’s a lot of tail wags! Sure, pups are cute and provide hours of entertainment, but why are we so obsessed with these furry companions? Here are five films that help to explain America’s love affair with dogs. All of these movies and more are available on Cox On Demand or streaming via Netflix on Contour TV.
HOTEL FOR DOGS
A study by Psychology Today suggests that roughly 40 percent of dog owners view their furry companions as family members. This is what Hotel For Dogs is all about — two orphans can no longer hide their adopted dog Friday from their foster parents, so they set out to find him a new home. They discover an abandoned hotel, which they transform into a canine paradise for Friday and a host of strays. But while the kids are busy taking in homeless pups, they themselves are searching for a permanent home. At its core, this film is about family and the importance of adopting those in need, human and fur babies alike.
MAX
Why are dogs so gosh darn loyal? Dog expert Cesar Millan says it’s because they’re pack animals — they want to belong. In the film Max, Justin finds this to be true. When his U.S. Marine older brother is killed in Afghanistan, he inherits his highly trained service dog, Max. Together, Justin and his new companion must figure out the mystery of his brother’s death. Max’s undying loyalty is not only what keeps us watching the film, but it’s part of the reason humans are so obsessed with dogs; their devotion is genuine and pure.
SECRET LIFE OF PETS
Do dogs miss us when we leave the house? According to this study they do, as does Max, the lovable terrier in The Secret Life of Pets. Max has the perfect relationship with his beloved owner Katie — until she brings home a second dog and his world begins to unravel. After Katie goes to work for the day, Max and his new adopted brother embark on a haphazard adventure through New York City. A wonderful film for that first child who’s having trouble adapting to a sibling, The Secret Life of Pets reminds us how important companionship is not just for dogs, but for humans as well.
